Zookeeper - Casual

Set in over 90 hectares of lush and tranquil surroundings, the Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is home to the Hamilton Zoo and Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park.  These well-loved community assets play an important part in connecting people with nature and conservation activities and providing fun experiences that inform and educate visitors. 

To find out more about Hamilon Zoo - click here.

He angituutanga: The opportunity

We now have 2 new casual Zookeeper opportunities! If you think this could be you - let’s talk. 

You will be supporting the team to: 

• Prepare and provide appropriate diets and enrichment activities based on species and individual needs
• Monitor behavior, health, and well-being, and report any concerns or abnormalities
• Clean and maintain enclosures, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment
• Accurately record and document observations, behaviors, and activities
• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures
• Assist in training and socialisation as needed
• Participate in educational programs and interact with visitors as required

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience 

• An understanding of modern zoological best practices. 
• Experience in animal handling in an animal care setting, 
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent record-keeping and documentation abilities
• Knowledge, understanding and commitment to workplace health and safety practices.
• Stamina to meet a variety of mentally and physically demanding challenges. 
• Exceptional communications and collaboration skills that enable you to work seamlessly with others and support your team members. 
• And of course, a love for zoo animals!

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary?

The starting wage for this role is $28.95 per hour dependent on skills and experience.

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer 

• Opportunities for professional development.
• Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now!

• View the Position Description
• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

Please include a cover letter with your application, combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on the: 1 April 2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. This role is Safety Sensitive so a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol test will be required. View more information about these checks and our commitment to the Privacy act here by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings. 

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.